BMW X5 upgrade launched in India

BMW has launched an updated version of the X5 SUV that was first launched in 2006. The new X5 will be available in petrol and diesel variants, with the petrol version costing Rs. 69.5 lakhs and the diesel model slightly more pocket-friendlier at Rs. 52.99 lakhs (both ex-showroom, Delhi). The bookings for the new model commence today and will be available in BMW showrooms across India. The company will start delivering the vehicle, which comes through the (completely built unit) CBU route, from October onwards.

Engine Specifications

The new X5 xDrive50i petrol is powered by a mammoth 5-litre, V8 engine that generates a peak power of 407 hp and a peak torque of 600 Nm. That’s enough to haul the bulky X5 from 0-100 kmph in just 5.5 seconds, claims BMW. The X5 xDrive30d diesel, on the other hand, is powered by a 3-litre, six-cylinder engine that produces a peak power of 245 hp and a maximum torque of 540 Nm. The diesel does the 0-100 kmph sprint in 7.6 seconds.

BMW X5 Key features

Photo: Dr. Andreas Schaaf with new BMW X5

BMW has made a few welcome changes to the X5’s exterior. The short overhangs, long wheelbase and muscular contours will grab attention wherever the car goes. The X5’s interior comprises fine woods, selected leathers and understated metal elements. The third row seat is optional. On the technology front, there’s a new brake regeneration technology that uses braking power to recharge the battery, apart from a new eight-speed automatic Steptronic transmission. An advanced camera system, with up to five cameras, helps to have a clear view of any situation—and not just to aid in parking this muscular SUV. The Head-Up Display lets the driver have all the important information he wants in his viewing field without taking his eyes off the road for a long time.

BMW X5 vs Competition

The BMW X5 fits in between the X3 and X5 in the German brand’s SUV portfolio in India. It will compete with the likes of Audi Q7 (Rs. 55 lakh upwards), Mercedes-Benz M-Class (Rs. 62 lakh upwards), Porsche Cayenne (Rs. 60 lakh plus) and the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (Rs 42 lakh and above). All prices are ex-showroom and the on-road price may vary.

BMW is aiming to grab the top luxury carmaker’s title in India, which is currently being held by Mercedes-Benz. It aims to do that by constantly adding new models and upgrades of its existing cars to attract customers and, thereby, increase its market share in the growing luxury car segment.

What next for BMW in India

The X5 has done well in India with BMW selling 287 units of the SUV in 2009. All eyes are now on BMW’s next big SUV for India, which could be the X1. At around Rs. 25 lakh, it would be the “most affordable car” from the German carmaker’s stable. Last year, BMW managed to lead the sales chart and beat Mercedes-Benz. But this year, Mercedes is ahead, so far.
BMW has laid out ambitious plans to get back into the game starting with increased production capacity at its Chennai facility—from 3,000 units earlier to 5,400 units per annum. It aims to expand capacity further by 2012 and has made a fresh investment of Rs 70 crore at the plant. Besides, it’s also looking to raise the number of dealerships to 22 from the existing18.

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